In a surprise move Wednesday morning, the San Diego Chargers informed starting safety Clinton Hart that he is being released, according to a source.

Hart had spent six years with the Chargers, starting in 33 games over the past three seasons. He started three games for San Diego this season.

According to a source, Hart was surprised by the move. But the decision may have been foreshadowed in the past few weeks, as Chargers coaches were removing him from some of the team's nickel packages for passing situations.

Hart's departure would mean rookie sixth-round pick Kevin Ellison would get more playing time.

Hart, 32, started his career with the Philadelphia Eagles before moving on to the Chargers.